The Indian Super League has successfully created a sensation, a buzz that has never been witnessed in the football circuit of India - a predominantly cricket-crazy country.
While most of the stadiums in eight cities, baring one or two, have been relatively packed, the tournament has generated encouraging television ratings as well.
There can be nth number of reasons behind the league's success but one thing which has been a major factor for the overwhelming response that the league has got from the critical Indian audience is the inclusion of world renowned names as the club's marquee players. Although a few eyebrows were raised on the fitness level and quality of these marquee signings, most of who are past their prime, some of these stars have really made their presence felt despite ageing.
One of those names has been Chennaiyin FC's Brazilian star Elano Blumer. The former Manchester City and Galatasaray playmaker has so far been a standout individual performer in the inaugural season of the ISL. His contribution has helped Chennaiyin FC hold onto the second place in the standings.
"I am very happy to have made a significant contribution to my team's cause but there is a long way to go, so I have to keep going," Elano, who was a part of Brazil's 2007 Copa America and the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup-winning teams, told IBNLive Sports.
Famous in Europe for his accurate passes, fantastic dribbling skills and creating exquisite set pieces, the curly-haired midfielder is now a household name in India for his self-styled free-kicks. With a remarkable report card of five goals in four matches, he is arguably the most impressive player of the tournament.
Another star in the Chennaiyin FC ranks is Marco Materazzi, a World-Cup winning Italian player and the protagonist of the 2006 Football World Cup final against France. The former Inter Milan defender is a player-manager of the team. So far the Elano-Materazzi combination has weaved magic for the Chennai franchise - with the team scoring an average of 2.25 points per game - the highest among all franchises.
On being asked to share his thoughts on working with Materazzi, Elano replied he was very happy to be working with him.
"It was first a great pleasure to meet him. I am very happy to be working with him together and it has been a very positive start for us," said the Brazilian.
Chennaiyin FC have struck gold with Elano. Owners are happy, fans are delighted, but one thing that only a 33-year-old father would understand is the pain of staying away from his beloved daughters.
"I consulted my wife and family, of course [before signing for ISL]. They are very prepared but the only problem is that I am far from my daughters [one eight years old and the other five]. They have school now, so they can't be here," Elano signed off.
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